The number of so-called high-impact crimes is showing a downward trend. Nevertheless, every form of crime remains a concern, according to Deputy Police Commissioner Rishi Akkal. The Korps Politie Suriname (KPS) is therefore further tightening security measures, with particular attention to the interior.
Akkal, who is also Director of Operations, told the Communicatie Dienst Suriname on Wednesday that every robbery and burglary is one too many. According to him, the police force continues to analyse crime figures and adjusts its strategies where necessary.
The recent armed robbery in Witagron is receiving particular attention. Checks in the area have been stepped up, and specialised police teams, detectives and intelligence services are being deployed. The KPS is also working together with the Nationaal Leger. Additional security measures have also been taken in, among other places, Apoera.
According to Akkal, the available police capacity in the interior is still insufficient. The KPS is therefore working on expanding its personnel, improving logistics, specialised training and the use of new technology. Checkpoints and mobile police services are deployed on the basis of current security analyses.
According to the police, the tightened checks have led, among other things, to several drug seizures at the Burnside checkpoint.
Road safety also remains an important point of attention. The number of traffic fatalities is a concern to the force. Akkal emphasises that road safety does not depend solely on police checks, but also on the behaviour of road users.
The KPS calls on citizens to remain alert, strengthen social oversight in neighbourhoods and report suspicious situations to the police. According to Akkal, the police cannot guarantee security on their own and cooperation with society is necessary.
